Nathan Anderson's message to classmates is as simple as it is straightforward. If you're willing to work hard and believe in yourself, you can achieve.

The Oxbow, N.D., native has followed that mantra throughout his career at NDSU. The result? He will represent his graduating class during NDSU's Dec. 14 commencement ceremony where Anderson will receive a Bachelor of Science in accounting with an emphasis in finance.

Anderson chose NDSU for two primary reasons - the strength of the College of Business and the chance to play golf at the Division I level. Accounting came naturally as it "fit my personality and the way my brain works," he said.

The degree path worked so well Anderson was selected by accounting faculty as the Outstanding Accounting Student of 2012.

"There are close to 200 junior, senior and graduate accounting majors eligible and considered for this award," said Bud Bowlin, professor and head of accounting, finance and information systems. "To be selected for this award reflects the high regard in which the accounting faculty holds Nate."

A member of the NDSU Accounting Club, Anderson is already pursuing a master's degree in accounting. He plans to reach 150 credit hours and sit for the certified public accountant exam. "I'm really looking forward to it," Anderson said. "It's always a challenge, but I've always been goal oriented and pursue challenges."

The challenges came on the golf course as well, where Anderson served as team captain for the past three years. He's dedicated hundreds of hours each year to his craft in practice, qualifying rounds and tournaments throughout the country. In that time, the team has lowered its scoring average by 20 shots per round.

Anderson also is a member of the Student Athletic Advisory Council, advising the NCAA on proposed legislation and organizing volunteer activities such as blood and food donation drives, sandbagging efforts and community events for area children.

"As a Division I athlete, I have learned improvement and growth come from pushing yourself out of your comfort zone," he said. "I believe this principle applies to every aspect of life and not just sports."

Anderson's teachers agree. "Nathan is without question the best student I have ever had," David Herda, assistant professor of accounting, wrote in a letter of support. "Nathan contributed to the learning experience for all participants by offering informed comments and asking thoughtful questions. As I would prepare for lectures, I would ask myself ‘What questions might Nathan ask that I should be prepared to answer?' "